[2:1] As for you, my son, be strong through the grace that is ours in union with Christ Jesus.
[2:2] Take the teachings that you heard me proclaim in the presence of many witnesses, and entrust them to reliable people, who will be able to teach others also.
[2:3] Take your part in suffering, as a loyal soldier of Christ Jesus.
[2:4] A soldier on active duty wants to please his commanding officer and so does not get mixed up in the affairs of civilian life.
[2:5] An athlete who runs in a race cannot win the prize unless he obeys the rules.
[2:6] The farmer who has done the hard work should have the first share of the harvest.
[2:7] Think about what I am saying, because the Lord will enable you to understand it all.
[2:8] Remember Jesus Christ, who was raised from death, who was a descendant of David, as is taught in the Good News I preach.
[2:9] Because I preach the Good News, I suffer and I am even chained like a criminal. But the word of God is not in chains,
[2:10] and so I endure everything for the sake of God's chosen people, in order that they too may obtain the salvation that comes through Christ Jesus and brings eternal glory.
[2:11] This is a true saying: “If we have died with him, we shall also live with him.
[2:12] If we continue to endure, we shall also rule with him. If we deny him, he also will deny us.
[2:13] If we are not faithful, he remains faithful, because he cannot be false to himself.”